**Residing in London: A Nine-Month Adventure**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration may appear brief, it has been sufficient to acquire several important insights about life in this dynamic city. London is notable not only for its cultural and community diversity but also for its range of housing options, making it a thrilling place to reside for both students and professionals. Whether you seek student accommodation or private rentals, the city presents an array of possibilities, including ensuite rooms, shared housing, studio flats, and house shares.
For home students, arranging an apartment viewing is a simple process, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online. These websites furnish information regarding amenities, closeness to public transportation, and other vital data, streamlining the search for an appropriate living space.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
At the outset of my accommodation quest, I prioritized finding a room within Central London. Living in proximity to major landmarks, social hotspots, and my university campus at Imperial College was essential. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s superb transportation network, which comprises the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy travel among these zones.
To economize on travel expenses—since inter-zonal journeys can cost as much as £5.25 per day—I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides reduced fares, rendering it a budget-friendly option for students. Additionally, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside Central London. However, ticket prices for these services vary based on distance and the train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, yet it also entails increased living costs. To控制开支, I opted to share a room with a friend, which noticeably decreased our rental costs. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered a chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—an experience that might have been more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Some popular supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent for students. Being near vital stores and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic times, like exam seasons, when every minute counts.
### Picking the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can feel daunting, given the city’s expanse and variety. London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich tapestry of traditions and cuisines. Many international students tend to flock to areas that evoke memories of home.
For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its significant South Asian community, showcasing Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional apparel outlets. Brixton, located in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End offers a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These neighbourhoods are just a few illustrations of the cultural wealth London has to present.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your personal interests and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural hubs or its modern amenities, London has something to offer everyone. My counsel to those seeking a home here is to welcome the diversity, explore the distinctive neighbourhoods, and relish the vibrancy of this extraordinary city.
London is not merely a location to inhabit—it’s an experience. And for me, these nine months have been absolutely transformative.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*